White House shooting: Donald Trump stumbles as armed threat triggers security lockdown during Correspondent's Dinner

US President Donald Trump appeared to lose his footing and stumble while being rapidly evacuated from the White House Correspondents’ Dinner venue after a gun scare triggered panic and a full-scale security response in Washington on Saturday night.

Footage circulating on social media showed Trump faltering briefly in a corridor as Secret Service agents hustled him out of the ballroom at the Washington Hilton, where moments earlier, the sound of gunfire had thrown the gathering into disarray.

Also read: Shotgun, Handgun, knives: All you should know about gunman at the White House press dinner for Trump



ET Online could not independently verify the authenticity of the footage.

Shots spark chaos

The disruption unfolded after gunshots were reported near the main security screening area, sending shockwaves through the packed hall. Cries of “Get down!” rang out as attendees scrambled for cover beneath tables, while heavily armed personnel stormed the venue and initiated emergency evacuation protocols.

Officials said an armed man attempted to breach security with a shotgun and opened fire at a Secret Service agent.

The agent, protected by gear, was unharmed. The suspect was swiftly overpowered and taken into custody.

Evacuation and fallout

Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were pulled off stage and moved to a secure holding area, alongside Vice President JD Vance and senior cabinet members, all of whom were confirmed safe. Security agents forced several officials to the ground before evacuating them in a staggered manner as part of standard protective drills.

Also read: Trump evacuated after shots fired at White House correspondents dinner, shooter in custody

In a social media post later, Trump lauded the response, saying the Secret Service and law enforcement acted “quickly and bravely.” He added that he had urged organisers to “LET THE SHOW GO ON,” though authorities ultimately called off the event.

The White House Correspondents’ Dinner—one of Washington’s most high-profile annual gatherings—was cancelled for the night following the incident.

The episode also revived the historical weight of the venue, which was the site of the 1981 assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan. Investigations into the shooting near the event entrance are ongoing.